Lost Man Loop - 8.9 Miles Round-Trip

The Lost Man Loop runs 8.9 miles up Lost Man Creek to Lost Man Lake and Lost Man Pass (12,810'), then drops to Independence Lake and follows the Roaring Fork River to Independence Lake Trailhead on Highway 82.

This versatile trail features two high alpine lakes, Lost Man Pass, expansive meadows and connections to Midway Pass and South Fork Pass.

The Lost Man Loop can be accessed from two points on Highway 82: The Lost Man Campground and Trailhead or Independence Lake Trailhead. Note the Lost Man Loop is not a true loop - it begins/ends at these trailheads, which are 4 miles apart. You'll either need to walk the road (not advised) or have a two-car shuttle to connect the trailheads.

The two starting points offer very different experiences, especially if returning the way you came. The Independence Lake Trailhead provides a shorter, more direct route to the lakes and pass, while the Lost Man Trailhead sends you on a long, gradual climb to the same destinations.

Desired distance and difficulty will help you decide which starting point is best. The following description begins at Lost Man Trailhead and travels clockwise:

Follow signs left from the trailhead for Lost Man Creek and Midway Creek. The trail arcs to the Midway Creek Trail split (.35 miles : 10,620') and rolls to the edge of Lost Man Reservoir (.55 miles : 10,610').

It levels past the reservoir across broad, open meadows to the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness Boundary (1.5 miles : 10,693') and a wide creek crossing, which can be fairly difficult during peak runoff (1.86 miles (10,785').

Once across it resumes a fast pace through intervals of meadow and patchy forest along and above the creek. Grades steepen past 2.5 miles to another creek at 2.9 miles (11,045'), a narrow but swift crossing aided by elevated, slippery logs.

The trail rises steadily through an expanding valley and veers steeply up the west wall to the South Fork Pass Trail split(4.1 miles : 11,622'). Take a few steps up this trail to see peaks that frame adjacent drainages.

The Lost Man Loop curls SE from South Fork over a big bend in the valley with great views up and down the route. Grades are moderate but the trail is rugged, brushy and muddy as you undulate close to the damp, swale-like valley floor.

It gradually rises back through potentially faint but well-traveled meadows and terraces (5.0 miles : 11,725') to Lost Man Lake (6.1 miles : 12,482'). The trail skirts the lake and switchbacks steeply up rugged, loose rock to Lost Man Pass (6.55 miles : 12,810').

Lost Man Pass spans a divisive ridge between the Roaring Fork headwaters (south), and Lost Man Creek drainage (north). Views are outstanding, with hike-able routes that branch off to Geissler Mountain and other points on the Continental Divide.

It continues on a steady descent between Twinning Peak (east) and Geissler Mountain (west) to a bridge over the Roaring Fork River (8.42 miles : 11,735'), split for Linkins Lake (8.75 miles : 11,615') and Independence Lake Trailhead on Highway 82 to complete the loop (8.9 miles : 11,506').

Worth Noting

This is a busy multi-use trail. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.

Camping and Backpacking Information

Backcountry Camping

Dispersed backcountry camping is permitted in the Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness. No fees or permits are required.

Camping is prohibited within 100' of any trail, lake or stream. Group size is limited to 15 individuals (or 25 with people + stock).

Campfires are permitted in the Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness, with potential seasonal restrictions. Campfires are not permitted above or within .25 miles (440 yards) of treeline, or within 100' of any trail, lake or stream. Location-specific restrictions may also apply.

Contact the Aspen Ranger District (970.925.3445) or Sopris Ranger District (970.963.2266) for the latest weather, trail conditions and trail-specific guidelines when planning your trip.

Fishing Information

Fishing is permitted in Lost Man Creek, Independence Lake, Lost Man Lake, Deadman Lake and all related streams with a valid Colorado fishing license.

Rules and Regulations

Dogs must be leashed at all times in the Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness.

Directions to Trailhead

The Lost Man Loop Trail is accessible from two trailheads on Highway 82 east of Aspen CO.

The first is at Lost Man Campground, approximately 13.3 miles east of Original Street in downtown Aspen.

The second is from Independence Lake Trailhead, 17.3 miles east of Aspen at the last switchback before reaching Independence Pass. Both trailheads are located on the north side of the road.

Note the Lost Man Loop Trail is not a true loop - it begins/ends at these two trailheads, which are connected only by Highway 82. To complete the loop you'll either need to arrange a 2-car shuttle, or walk the road.